MS HB1331

Creates Section 29-3-2.1 to authorize the Secretary of State to assume management and control of sixteenth section lands in school districts declared under a state of emergency under Section 37-17-6.

Automatic divestiture of board of education authority occurs upon emergency declaration and extends for the emergency period plus four (4) additional years after the emergency ends.

Allows school boards to voluntarily surrender management authority over sixteenth section lands to the Secretary of State for a minimum period of four (4) years, with ability to rescind the divestiture by subsequent board order.

Directs all revenue from timber sales, forest products, and land leases managed by the Secretary of State to be forwarded to the school district, with the district reimbursing the Secretary of State for direct costs and management expenses.

Amends Section 29-3-1.1 to include the Secretary of State in the definitions of "board of education" and "superintendent of education" when the Secretary of State holds management authority over sixteenth section lands.